There can be a perception that the changes to the hormones during perimenopause lead to a reduction in libido but actually they can lead to heightened sexual response. A study in 1986 (Masters & Johnson) found that women have no decline in orgasmic potential during their lives and may become more orgasmic. 
Remember, sex is good for you. Sex stimulates the hormones, releases tension, boosts the immune system, relieves headaches and is a great form of exercise. A research project involving 55,000 respondents showed that people who had a satisfying sex life were physically healthier and more relaxed than those with an unsatisfying sex life (Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality, San Francisco).
This not only about penetrative sex. There is a whole range of foreplay and intimate touch that will stimulate the production of positive hormones, improve your mood and tone your body.
One of the things that can deter you from having sex is the reduction of moisture and elasticity in the vagina. This is caused by the lower levels of oestrogen. The tissue of the vagina becomes drier, more easily irritated and broken. This can make sex uncomfortable and leave the genital area more prone to inflammation and infection.
There are some simple things you can do to help to avoid infections:
- Wear loose clothes to allow air to circulate around your lower body. Avoid wearing tights and wear cotton underwear.
- Wash your genital area thoroughly every day but avoid using perfumed soaps and sprays. Wipe your genital area from front to back to avoid pushing germs into your vagina
- Drink lots of fluids, preferably water
- Urinate frequently including
- Before sex for comfort and to reduce the risk of bruising and
- After sex to flush bacteria from the urethra
- Use a water based or organic lubricant (such as coconut oil) during intercourse to reduce friction
- Avoid using biological washing powders and liquids to wash underwear
You might consider food supplements that help maintain a healthy vagina:
- Omega 3 Oil – to control inflammation and help to lubricate the body
- Vitamin C – to help your body manufacture collagen to keep the walls of the vagina elastic.
- Probiotic – to aid good levels of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system
- Cranberries – stop the bacteria that give rise to cystitis from attaching to the wall of the urinary tract. Use a concentrated dried form or unsweetened cranberry juice.
Most importantly, have fun!
